Cambridge schools - Parkside

[BoyTwinsMum]

We are wondering whether to stay in our small house in the catchment area for Parkside or whether to move somewhere bigger further out of town. I know a bigger house doesn't equal happiness and being near the centre (right by the train station) is very handy. My children are still at St Paul's School which is a feeder school for Parkside. I have heard that the catchment area for Parkside is decreasing with the increasing numbers at St Matthew's - 90 per year and Parkside only takes 120 per year. I'm worried we might not get in anyway as we are 0.6 miles away as the crow flies! Any opinions on Parkside appreciated. One of my children is dyslexic if that's relevant! Thank you!

[ReadytoOrderSir]

When you say 'further out' ... how far do you mean? Could go west to get into Swavesey VC catchment for the best state results in the county. The feeder primaries in the villages are all Good or Outstanding AFAIR. Or Comberton VC is also pretty darned good. Some lovely villages in both catchments.

[PickleFish]

St Matthew's has only just gone to 3 form intake, so it will be a little while before that impacts Parkside catchment. I wonder if there are any plans to increase Parkside numbers as a consequence? It could be worth asking the council, as you would hope that planned increases in primary admissions would be part of a longer term plan.

[BoyTwinsMum]

Thank you both very much for your comments. Our children started in reception when st matthew's expanded so we'll be directly affected. There is also lots of new housing going up right near us. Great thought about expansion plans for parkside. I will try and find out! I quite like the idea of being at a school where my children can walk to their friends' houses or too clubs: as a child I lived miles from anywhere and my parents became too ill to ferry me about. Parkside would be perfect for that, but whether it might end up being too academic for my children I don't know! Thanks again for your helpful replies.